🗺️ Higashikagura Island日間賀島（ひまかじま）

Located in Aichi Prefecture on Mikawa Bay, this small island has a circumference of about 5.5 kilometers. It takes approximately 20 minutes to reach by high-speed boat from Kawa and Port, and it's quite convenient to travel from Nagoya as well. The island has two ports, West Port and East Port, where most accommodations and shops are concentrated near West Port. The island primarily relies on fishing, particularly octopus. Besides the iconic octopus decorations, you can also find octopus-themed designs in unexpected places like manhole covers and police stations. There are several inns and guesthouses on the island known for their cuisine, offering a rich variety of delicious food. Among them, the whole boiled octopus is a local delicacy in Hirashima during the day, with its chewy texture making it irresistible. From October to March, you can also enjoy fugu (pufferfish) dishes. Most accommodations offer same-day round-trip plans (reservation required), allowing you to indulge in delicious seafood without needing to stay overnight. It's recommended to take your time and leisurely enjoy activities like swimming or fishing. Some shops offer fishing gear for rent. On the east side of the island, there is the "Lover's Swing," where you can enjoy the exhilarating sensation of swinging out over the sea and take in the stunning views perfect for photos.

The island, rich in gourmet food and tourist attractions, is easily accessible from Nagoya. Everywhere on the island, you can see decorations and illustrations featuring octopuses. You can fully enjoy leisure activities such as swimming and fishing. The "Lover's Swing" on the eastern side of the island is a popular photo spot. You can easily circle the island by walking or renting a bicycle.